Hertz Car Rental
New Orleans

Upon collecting your luggage at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, look for signs directing you to the Rental Car Center. The center is a separate, consolidated facility easily reached via a complimentary shuttle service. The shuttle pickup area is located just outside the baggage claim level, and the ride is typically very short. Following the overhead airport signage for rental cars is the most reliable method to get you to the correct shuttle stop and then directly to the Hertz counter.

During a busy weekend, it's wise to budget approximately 60 to 90 minutes from deplaning to driving away. This accounts for walking through the terminal, a potentially crowded baggage claim, and waiting for the shuttle to the Rental Car Center. The rental counter itself may have a line during peak arrival times, especially ahead of major festivals or events. Planning for this buffer helps ensure a relaxed start to your New Orleans visit without feeling rushed.

The MSY Rental Car Center is a modern facility designed for 24/7 operation, ensuring a safe and clear experience even late at night. The pathways from baggage claim to the shuttle pickup area are well-lit and clearly marked with overhead signs. Shuttles run frequently, and the rental facility itself is brightly illuminated with staff available to assist you at the Hertz counter. You can expect a smooth and secure process, allowing you to get on your way efficiently regardless of your arrival time.

For a relatively straightforward route, take I-10 East directly from the airport area toward downtown New Orleans. You will follow this for several miles until you see the exits for the Central Business District (CBD) and the French Quarter. Using a GPS is highly recommended, as it will guide you to the specific exit for your destination, such as Poydras Street or the Superdome exits. This primary interstate route is well-signed and helps you avoid complex surface streets until you are much closer to your destination.

First-time drivers often find the I-10 and US-90 interchange near the Superdome to be challenging. This area involves multiple lanes merging and splitting in quick succession, requiring decisive and timely lane changes. It's also common for visitors to be surprised by the number of exits that appear close together as they approach the downtown area. Keeping your GPS active and paying close attention to the overhead signs well in advance of your exit will help you navigate this section smoothly.

Driving in the French Quarter requires patience and heightened awareness, as it's a historic area not designed for modern vehicles. Expect very narrow lanes, many of which are one-way, and be prepared for frequent stops for pedestrians and horse-drawn carriages. Delivery trucks often block entire streets in the morning, so it's best to avoid driving during those hours if possible. The best strategy is often to drive directly to your hotel or a designated parking garage and then explore the neighborhood on foot.

An efficient strategy is for the designated driver to proceed alone on the shuttle to the Rental Car Center to handle the paperwork and pick up the vehicle. The rest of the group can wait with the luggage at the passenger pickup area outside the baggage claim level. Once the driver has the car, they can circle back to the terminal's arrivals curb to collect everyone. This approach minimizes crowd congestion at the rental counter and makes managing luggage much simpler.

For secure and convenient parking, consider using one of the many public parking garages or lots located along the edges of the French Quarter. Facilities on streets like Canal, Iberville, or Decatur are often a good choice, as they provide easy access without forcing you to navigate the tightest interior streets. Some hotels offer parking to non-guests for a daily fee, which can be another reliable option. Parking here allows you to explore the Quarter worry-free and provides a straightforward exit when you're ready for your day trip.

Driving in the Marigny and Bywater is generally less congested than the French Quarter, but it presents its own challenges. The street grid can be irregular, with some streets changing names or ending abruptly, so relying on a GPS is essential. Visitors are often surprised by the poor condition of some roads and the prevalence of unmarked intersections that function as four-way stops by local custom. Always drive cautiously, watch for cyclists, and be prepared for the unexpected when navigating these vibrant residential areas.

When driving near streetcar lines, such as on St. Charles Avenue or Canal Street, be mindful that the tracks often occupy the center lanes. Avoid driving directly on the tracks, as your tires can get caught, especially in wet conditions. Pay close attention to signage and road markings, as some lanes are designated for transit only. Be prepared for the streetcar to stop frequently, and never attempt to pass a stopped streetcar when its doors are open for passengers.

Parades and second lines are a core part of New Orleans life and can lead to sudden, rolling street closures with little advance warning. Major parade routes during Mardi Gras season are blocked for hours, while a neighborhood second line might only affect a few blocks for a short time. The smartest approach is to check a local parade-tracker app or news site before you head out. Always build extra time into your travel plans and have an alternate route in mind, especially if you have a flight to catch or a reservation to make.

During a major festival like Jazz Fest or French Quarter Fest, vehicle access becomes extremely difficult in and around the event's location. The French Quarter is often closed to all but essential traffic, and the Central Business District (CBD) experiences heavy congestion and limited parking. Neighborhoods surrounding the Fair Grounds, the site of Jazz Fest, will also have extensive street closures and parking restrictions. It's best to park your car at your hotel or a garage on the periphery and use walking, streetcars, or ride-sharing services to get closer to the festivities.

The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is a unique driving experience, as it's one of the world's longest continuous bridges over water. For nearly 24 miles, you will be out of sight of land, which can be unsettling for some drivers. The bridge is a straight, flat, multi-lane road, making the drive itself very simple. If you're anxious, plan to drive during daylight hours, stay in the right lane, and focus on the road ahead rather than the vast expanse of water around you.

To avoid the worst traffic, plan to leave New Orleans for plantation country after the morning rush hour, typically after 9:30 AM. The drive west along River Road or I-10 is generally smooth during midday. For your return trip, aim to be back in the New Orleans metro area either before 3:30 PM or after 6:30 PM to miss the peak afternoon commute. This timing strategy allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable drive, maximizing your time at the historic sites.

A logical route would be to drive to the Whitney Plantation first, as it is one of the furthest west of the popular River Road plantations. After your tour there, you can work your way back east toward New Orleans. This allows you to visit another site like the Oak Alley or Laura Plantation on your return journey. This west-to-east progression prevents unnecessary backtracking and creates a more efficient and scenic drive along the Mississippi River.

The drive on I-10 between New Orleans and Baton Rouge is mostly straightforward, but it has notable congestion points. Traffic often slows considerably around the Gonzales and Prairieville exits due to commercial and residential density. As you approach Baton Rouge, the I-10/I-12 split is a major bottleneck where you'll need to be in your correct lane well in advance. Expect varying speeds and be aware that many drivers commute this route, so lane changes can be frequent and abrupt during peak hours.

A same-day trip to Lafayette is definitely achievable, but it requires careful planning to avoid feeling rushed. The drive is about two and a half hours each way without traffic, so an early start is crucial. Plan to leave New Orleans by 9:00 AM to arrive in time for a leisurely lunch and some afternoon exploration. Since authentic Cajun music often starts later in the evening, you'll need to decide between heading back after dinner or staying for the music and preparing for a late-night drive back to New Orleans.

Many swamp tours operate in areas west of New Orleans, such as near Jean Lafitte or in the Atchafalaya Basin. For the easiest drive, look for tour operators located just off major highways like US-90 or I-10. These locations typically have clear signage and are designed to be easily accessible for visitors driving from the city or airport. Choosing a tour with a meeting point directly off a main thoroughfare will help you avoid navigating winding, poorly marked back roads in unfamiliar rural areas.

Visiting the Barataria Preserve section of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park is quite practical with a rental car. The drive south from New Orleans is straightforward, leading you to a dedicated visitor center with ample, free parking. The roads are well-maintained, and access is simple. Once parked, you can easily explore the boardwalk trails on foot. It's a low-stress destination, as you don't have to worry about finding street parking or navigating a complex area upon arrival.

To avoid the heaviest traffic on I-10 heading to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, try to leave New Orleans before 9:00 AM, especially on a weekend. The area around the I-10/I-59 split near Slidell can become congested, so getting through there early is key. For a more scenic and potentially less stressful alternative, consider taking Highway 90, which runs parallel to the interstate and follows the coastline. While it may take slightly longer, it offers beautiful views and a more relaxed driving experience.

To avoid hitting peak return traffic, plan to leave the Mississippi Gulf Coast to be back in the New Orleans area before 3:30 PM. Alternatively, enjoy an early dinner on the coast and begin your drive back after 6:30 PM. This helps you miss the afternoon commuter rush that builds on I-10 heading west into the city. On a Sunday, be aware that many others will have the same idea, so an earlier departure is always the safer bet for a smooth journey.

Driving in a New Orleans downpour requires extreme caution, as the city's drainage system can be quickly overwhelmed. Water pools rapidly, especially in underpasses and on streets with poor pavement. Major thoroughfares like Tulane Avenue, Broad Street, and parts of the I-10 can experience significant flooding. If you encounter standing water, it's crucial not to drive through it, as it's impossible to know its depth. The safest course of action is to pull over to a safe location and wait for the rain to subside.

During hurricane season (June through November), it's essential to monitor local weather forecasts from a reliable source like the National Weather Service daily. Pay close attention to any tropical systems forming in the Gulf of Mexico. If a storm is approaching, be aware of potential evacuation orders, which can lead to contraflow lane reversals on major interstates. Keeping your gas tank at least half full is a wise precaution, as is having a flexible itinerary that allows you to change plans if necessary.

Experiencing potholes is an unavoidable part of driving in New Orleans, so the best plan is to be defensive and attentive. Keep a safe following distance from the car ahead of you to better see and react to road conditions. Reduce your speed, especially on unfamiliar residential streets, and be particularly cautious at night or in the rain when potholes are harder to spot. Sticking to major thoroughfares and interstate highways when possible can help minimize your exposure to the most damaged surfaces.

The most frequent parking errors visitors make include parking too close to a corner or fire hydrant, as enforcement is very strict. Many also get caught by not reading signs carefully, overlooking street cleaning hours or residential permit requirements. Another common mistake is parking on the neutral ground (the median), which is prohibited. To avoid issues, thoroughly read all posted signs for restrictions and, when in doubt, opt for a paid parking lot or garage for complete peace of mind.

Before you arrive, call the hotel and ask about the specific location of their valet stand, as it might be on a side street. Inquire about their policy for in-and-out privileges and if there are any times when retrieving your car might take longer due to traffic or events. It's also helpful to ask if they need to be notified in advance when you plan to pick up your vehicle. Clarifying these details beforehand ensures a seamless process when you pull up to the hotel in a busy area.

For easier parking and quick access to highways for day trips, consider staying in the Central Business District (CBD) or the Warehouse District. These areas have numerous hotels with their own parking garages and are located very close to the I-10 on-ramps. The Garden District is another good option, as many hotels and inns there offer off-street parking, and it provides a less congested starting point for heading out of the city compared to the French Quarter.

The area along Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie, just a short drive from the airport, is an excellent place for a reset stop. This major commercial corridor has numerous familiar chain restaurants, grocery stores, and large retailers like Target. You can easily pull in, use the restroom, grab snacks and drinks, and purchase any forgotten essentials. It's a low-stress environment to get organized before tackling the drive into downtown New Orleans.

To avoid circling the busy arrivals curb, use the airport's cell phone lot. This is a free, designated waiting area where you can park until your friends have collected their luggage and are standing outside at the passenger pickup zone. Once they call you, it's just a short two-minute drive from the cell phone lot to the terminal. This is the most efficient and stress-free way to coordinate a pickup without causing traffic congestion.

The least stressful way to move hotels is to time your drive for mid-day, between late morning and early afternoon, avoiding both morning and evening rush hours. Check out of your French Quarter hotel and use a GPS to navigate to the Garden District via a major street like St. Charles Avenue. This route is scenic and generally less hectic than the interstate. Call your second hotel in advance to confirm their check-in procedure and where to park upon arrival to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Driving in the Garden District and along Magazine Street requires patience, especially on weekends. Magazine Street is a narrow, busy thoroughfare with heavy pedestrian traffic and cars constantly pulling in and out of parallel parking spots. Free street parking can be found on side streets, but be sure to read all signs for any residential restrictions. It's often easier to find a spot a few blocks away from the main commercial strip and enjoy a short walk to your destination.

Driving to City Park and the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) is generally not challenging at all. The park is large and easily accessible from major roads like I-610 or City Park Avenue. Once inside the park, you'll find ample free parking in lots and along the park's scenic roads, especially near NOMA and the sculpture garden. Even on busy days, finding a parking spot is typically much easier here than in downtown neighborhoods.

The most convenient access point for Audubon Park and the Zoo is the main entrance on Magazine Street. This entrance leads directly to a large, free parking lot dedicated to zoo and park visitors. Using this official entrance helps you avoid navigating the tight residential streets that border the park. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, is the best strategy to secure a spot in the primary lot and avoid any overflow parking situations.

New Orleans uses speed cameras extensively, particularly in school zones, so it's crucial to be vigilant about your speed. School zone speed limits are strictly enforced during specific morning and afternoon hours, which are clearly posted on flashing signs. Be aware that your GPS may not always alert you to these temporary speed changes. The best practice is to watch for the flashing yellow lights indicating an active school zone and immediately reduce your speed to the posted limit to avoid a ticket.

The most effective plan is to never leave valuables visible inside your car, even for a few minutes. Before you arrive at your destination, place items like luggage, shopping bags, and electronics in the trunk. If you're moving between hotels, drop your luggage off first before heading out to sightsee. Always park in well-lit, populated areas whenever possible, and consider using a secure, paid parking garage for overnight parking, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

When driving from MSY to the cruise terminal, the most direct route is typically I-10 East to US-90 Business West (the Crescent City Connection bridge). The key consideration is timing, as port traffic can be heavy on embarkation days. Follow the specific signs for your cruise line's terminal, as the port is large and has multiple entrances. Give yourself plenty of extra time to account for potential congestion right at the terminal entrance, where security and passenger drop-offs can slow things down.

A good rule of thumb is to leave for MSY at least three hours before your flight's departure time, especially if you are traveling during peak hours or on a day with a major event. This provides a comfortable buffer for the 30-40 minute drive, the car return process, the shuttle back to the terminal, and airport security. Check a real-time traffic app before you leave to see if there are any unusual delays on I-10 that might require an even earlier departure.

The drive to the MSY rental car return is well-signed as you approach the airport terminal complex. The most common point of confusion occurs right as you enter the airport grounds, where the lanes split for departures, arrivals, and rental car returns. Drivers who are not in the correct lane early enough can sometimes miss the dedicated exit. Pay close attention to the overhead signs for 'Rental Car Return' and merge into the designated lane as soon as you see them to ensure a smooth entry.

The most efficient sequence is to first follow the signs for 'Departures' at the main terminal. Drop off your passengers and all the luggage at the curb corresponding to your airline. After they are safely on their way into the terminal, you can then follow the airport road signs to loop back around to the 'Rental Car Return' entrance. This prevents you from having to manage luggage on the shuttle bus from the rental facility.

For your first day, plan to pick up your car at MSY and head to your first destination outside of New Orleans directly, bypassing the city's downtown traffic. For example, if your trip includes plantation country, head west immediately after leaving the airport. This allows you to maximize your daylight hours for driving and sightseeing. Conclude your day by checking into your hotel in the late afternoon, either in a smaller town or on the outskirts of New Orleans, after the main rush hour has subsided.